The seven-game 2018 Martin Luther King Jr. Basketball Classic tips off at 11 a.m. at McKale Center on Monday.
The annual event, sponsored by Coaches for Charity, celebrates cultural awareness and good sportsmanship and citizenship.
“For almost two decades, the MLK Basketball Tournament has given student athletes the opportunity to showcase their talent at McKale Center,” event chairman Herman House said in a news release. “At the same time, we highlight academic excellence and the legacy of Martin Luther King through an essay contest and recognition of individuals who emulate him.”
The tournament opens with the girls squads from Santa Rita and Immaculate Heart playing at 11 a.m.
The Sells Baboquivari and St. David boys face off at 12:30 p.m., followed by Rio Rico girls vs. Amphi at 2 p.m.
Santa Cruz County rivals — Nogales and Rio Rico boys — play at 3:30 p.m. and the girl squads from Sahuaro and Pueblo play at 5 p.m.
The tourney will close with two boys games, Ironwood Ridge vs. Sabino at 6:30 p.m. and Mountain View vs. Sahuaro at 8 p.m.
Tickets cost $6 for students and $10 for adults.
“This is a fantastic event and the student athletes and fans enjoy a unique experience in a classy arena,” House said.
